Candide Essay | Candide

Candide

Summary: Explains the transformation from the middle ages to the enlightenment.

Candide

Candide, written by Voltaire during the 18th century is a celebrated novel known for it's strong criticism of the Middle Ages and Enlightenment expressed by Voltaire. During the transformation from the Middle Ages to The Enlightenment, social, religious and political ideas were rejected and emphasis was placed on rationalism. Three examples of this notion that are expressed in Candide are as follows.

Social conduct that was normally practiced during the 18th century was thrown out of the window during the Enlightenment. Enlightenment thinkers were famous for piercing criticism. Civilians were steadily gaining the newfound knowledge presented by various prodigies during this century. Most people were beginning to think for themselves, which is something that had not happened in previous centuries. Voltaire expresses these innovative views in Candide through his characters. The count's character illustrates Voltaire's skepticism at the idea that anything, even great art, can make human beings...